Financial Audits

It Takes Outstanding People to Do Challenging Work.

Three State Auditor staff members in business attire with one staff member in focus

With billions of dollars in federal funding on the line, determining if California's financial statements are presented fairly is critical work. Each year our staff ensures California can receive funding that supports infrastructure, schools, and other public services.

Join our team and help ensure California programs continue to receive essential funding.

learn more  >

Our Annual Financial Audit is Among the Largest in the World.

California has one of the LARGEST ECONOMIES IN THE WORLD, bigger than the United Kingdom, India, France, and Brazil.

California is LARGER than Apple, Amazon, and AT&T.

Because it includes so many agencies and services, California's financial statements are HIGHLY COMPLEX.

"Working on our financial audit will give you experience evaluating large funds and give you exposure to many facets of California State government."

Richard Marsh, CPA
Senior Financial Auditor

We Make Sure California Cities are Accountable to Their Taxpayers.

Local Government High Risk logo

In addition to the large annual financial audit, our team evaluates city government finances to assess the ongoing fiscal health of California's 470 plus cities. We analyze and rank cities using financial indicators to inform the public about whether their city is facing fiscal challenges. We summarize our analysis on an easily accessible dashboard. If approved by the Legislature, our team then audits the highest risk cities to provide recommendations that will help them get their financial houses back on track.

LEARN MORE
Transcript

Financial Audits are Important for Government Accountability.

Natalia Stanson, CPA, Financial Auditor, in business suit jacket in front of light rail train

Natalia Stanson, CPA

B.A. Accounting and Finance
University of Derby

Natalia evaluates financial reporting for all California state agencies. She takes pride in this work because it ensures the State can receive federal funds that flow down to schools and other public services. As part of our local high-risk program, Natalia also uses her knowledge to help cities prepare for economic downturns, including how to preserve important government services in tough times.

"Some people might think finances are boring, but when things go wrong, everyone cares. I like being part of the backbone of stability for government and helping to ensure it continues to provide critical services."

Natalia Stanson, CPA
Financial Auditor

What You Would Do as a Financial Auditor...

magnifying glass with dollar signIdentify Areas of Risk to the State
document with bar chart and down arrow signifying collecting dataCollect and Analyze Evidence
bar chartTrend and Visualize Data
3 people speaking to one personInterview Government Officials
document and calculatorAudit the 5th Largest Economy in the World